The government has overhauled toll calculations on national highways that feature expensive structures such as bridges, tunnels and flyovers. The new NHAI formula chooses the lower of two calculations, promising reduced charges for many commuters.
Key Takeaways
- The new NHAI toll formula selects the lower amount from two calculation methods.
- Long bridges, tunnels and flyovers may see reduced tolls.
- Structures 60 metres or shorter will no longer be treated separately.
What Has Changed in Toll Calculation?
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a revised toll‑calculation rule for highway stretches that include costly structures like bridges, tunnels and elevated roads. Under the new rule, toll is computed using whichever of two formulas yields a lower figure: (i) ten times the length of the structures plus the remaining highway length, or (ii) five times the total length of the highway segment.
How Travelers Benefit
Motorists traveling on routes with long bridges or tunnels can now expect lower tolls, as the revised method often reduces the chargeable distance. The exact savings will vary depending on the proportion of structures on each highway.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the revised formula balances the government's need to recover high construction costs with commuters' demand for affordability, potentially boosting road usage and economic activity along major corridors.
"This move not only eases the financial burden on road users but also encourages long‑distance trade," says transport economics professor Ajay Singh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will this rule apply to all national highways?
A: The new calculation applies only to highway segments that contain major structures such as bridges, tunnels, flyovers or viaducts.
Q2: How much can a driver actually save?
A: Savings depend on the specific highway, but reductions of 20‑30% are possible on routes with extensive infrastructure.
